Hole-in-one golf video registration system

ABSTRACT

Charitable donations may be made by purchasing hole-in-one insurance and verified by recorded video images derived from appropriately situated cameras. Often, especially with respect to charitable functions in association with golf tournaments, hole-in-one insurance is purchased that pays the person insured if a hole-in-one is made on the hole for which the insurance is purchased. The purchase of such insurance generates proceeds for a selected charity, the purchase price exceeding that needed to purchase the insurance policy. The present invention provides geographically local and convenient purchase of such insurance on a hole-by-hole basis. A central unit acts as a control where ATM, credit card, or specially purchased magnetic cards or the like may be used to purchase or indicate the purchase of such insurance. The transaction is validated with appropriate displays presented to the user. The keypad may also be used for data input, such as ATM personal identification numbers (PIN). Video cassette recorders and video editing equipment may provide means by which the resulting golf shot may be recorded. A certain adequate but limited amount of time may be given to the golfer in order to complete the shot. Financial transaction verification processes may be engaged so that the transactions are validated and the appropriate charity is credited with the donation for the purchase of the insurance.

[0001] This application is a continuation-in-part of copending U.S. Ser.No. 09/120,489, filed Jul. 21, 1998.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] 1. Field of the Invention

[0003] This invention relates to golf shot surveillance systems and moreparticularly to a pay-per-shot surveillance system for use inconjunction with “hole-in-one” insurance for charitable or otherpurposes.

[0004] 2. Description of the Related Art

[0005] The game of golf is generally known from Scottish days of yore.In golf, clubs are used to drive small balls great distances into asmall hole or cup. Challenges in the game of golf arise from terrainthat tends to work against the golfer from delivering the ball to thecup. Such obstacles include dog legs, rough grass, trees, sand traps,and difficult inclines and slopes.

[0006] Generally, most holes on a golf course are par three or more. Inother words, it takes at least three shots or strokes to get the ballinto the cup. Good or great golfers often go below par and sink the ballinto the cup by taking fewer than the par number of shots for the hole.A score that is one below par for a hole is known as a birdie and twobelow par is an eagle.

[0007] While birdies may be common for strong golfers, eagles are lessso. Far more rare is the hole-in-one. Holes-in-one occur so infrequentlythat they are often subject to television rebroadcast when they arecaptured on video. The hole-in-one in golf is much like the triple playin baseball in that it occurs rarely and is an example of exceptionalplay.

[0008] The rarity of a hole-in-one golf shot is widely known. Someestimate the probability at approximately 1 in 10,000. Consequently,there has arisen in some golfing communities fund-raising activitiescentered upon this small but actual chance of sinking a hole-in-one. Anyplayer who can drive the golf ball from the tee to the green has thepossibility of making a hole-in-one. Many golf courses have holes ofdistances on the order of 200 yards, making the hole-in-one a distinct,but rare, possibility for all players.

[0009] One means of such fund-raising is the payment of “insurance” thatpays off in the unlikely circumstance that a hole-in-one is made. Suchinsurance may pay off not only to the golfer as a reward for his luckyshot, but also to a charity of his or her choice. Generally, a paymenton the order of ten percent is made to the golfer while eighty or ninetypercent goes to the charity. The remaining portion may go toadministration of the insurance with (as set forth in more detail below)the accompanying necessary equipment required for validation of thehole-in-one. Alternatively, the golfer may pay a higher fee for theinsurance, with the surplus over the necessary insurance payment andcost of the necessary equipment required for validation of thehole-in-one going to charity. In this way, the charity benefits withevery participant and a person sinking a hole-in-one receives a muchhigher reward. However, there are limitations to this type of fundraising activity. For example, since a hole-in-one must be adequatelywitnessed before the prize is paid, such fund raising activity isnormally used in conjunction with a one-day tournament sponsored by aparticular charity. As a result, the golfer is normally restricted tocontributing to the particular charity sponsoring the tournament, and isunable to contribute to other charities.

[0010] Currently, a prior patent to Vincent (U.S. Pat. No. 5,102,140issued Apr. 7, 1992) provides a basic means by which recording ahole-in-one may be automated, thereby eliminating the requirement for awitness. In the Vincent '140 patent, coin-operated controls activate acamera and a recording system. However, the camera must focus along theentirety of the golf course hole, something very difficult for a camerato do, as the focal point is generally not along the 100 to 300 yarddistance the hole must take in order for there to be a hole-in-one.Additionally, certain inconveniences arise in the Vincent '140 patentwith respect to spontaneous payment and the like in that a golfer maynot necessarily have coins or tokens or prepaid slips or the like in hispockets which would activate the recording system.

[0011] Consequently, there are improvements to be made in the recordingof golf shots that might result in the rare hole-in-one. By improvingupon and advancing the art as it is currently known, the presentinvention provides advantageous and useful means by which such charityfunds may be raised and video recordation of a hole-in-one may occur.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0012] The present invention resides in an improved hole-in-one golfvideo registration system that provides better coverage of the hole shotby the golfer as well as more convenient and proficient means by whichthe possible hole-in-one may be recorded for subsequent verification.The present invention further provides a new and improved system for thecollection and pay-out of funds donated to charities, including a newand improved system for tracking and auditing all transactions to deterand eliminate fraudulent activities.

[0013] In the preferred form, first and second cameras are located atthe tee and the hole, respectively. An activation unit, possiblyassociated with the tee camera, receives input as by swiped magneticstriped card in order to activate the camera and recording system. Thevideo signals from the cameras may be combined in a split screen fashionin order to provide temporal coordination between the golfer's shot andthe ball's landing on the tee. Additionally, a clock or the like cantime the ball's flight in order to ensure that the ball hit by thegolfer is the one that sinks in the cup. Additionally, other camerascould also be used to focus upon different aspects of the golf ball'sflight, particularly that of the golf ball as it soars over the fairway.

[0014] In one embodiment, a financial transaction station effects thecharitable transaction via an electronic signal transceiver or the like.Upon confirmation of the transaction, the golfer may select the charityof choice. A receipt memorializing the transaction for tax purposes maybe printed. Initiated by an activation signal, the ensuing golf shot maybe recorded to evidence a hole-in-one, substantiating the golfer's rightto collect upon the paid insurance.

[0015] In other embodiments, a golfer may obtain a game card bearing aunique game card number, or otherwise obtain a game or shot attemptnumber, and then activate the game number in association with a personalidentification number (PIN) as by accessing a system web site on theInternet. The appropriate contribution may be collected electronicallyat the time of game number activation, conveniently by credit or debitcard payment and in a manner permitting the golfer to select one or moredesignated charitable organizations to receive a portion of thecontribution. An activation unit at the golf course tee is then accessedas by entry of a code including the shot attempt number and PIN toindicate that the golfer is ready to make an attempt at achieving ahole-in-one on a participating golf course hole. Tee and green camerasare activated for a defined time interval to provide a video record,preferably with redundant back-up, linked to a processor unit such as acomputer which records and stores the video record in digital form on ahard disk. In the event that a successful hole-in-one is achieved, areporting terminal may be provided at the golf course such as in a proshop or clubhouse facility for automated report, after which the videorecord of the purported winning shot is accessed and retrieved remotelyfor review by administrative staff personnel before prize money isawarded.

[0016] It is an object of the present invention to provide a hole-in-onegolf video registration system that provides focused inspection of thegolf shot at the tee and the cup.

[0017] It is an additional object of the present invention to provide animproved hole-in-one golf video registration system.

[0018] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide ahole-in-one golf video registration system that uses a convenientpayment means for activation.

[0019] These and other objects and advantages of the present inventionwill be apparent from a review of the following specification andaccompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] The accompanying drawings illustrate the invention. In suchdrawings:

[0021]FIG. 1 shows a schematic view of a camera in a housing with itsangular view of the tee;

[0022]FIG. 2 is a schematic view of a camera in a housing with itsangular view of the green and cup;

[0023]FIG. 3 is a diagrammatic view of the hole-in-one golf videoregistration system of the present invention;

[0024]FIG. 4 is an upper perspective view of an equipment housing for avideo camera and/or activation circuitry for the present invention;

[0025]FIG. 5 is a side plan view of the housing of FIG. 4;

[0026]FIG. 6 is a front plan view of the housing of FIG. 4;

[0027]FIG. 7 is a bottom plan view of the housing of FIG. 4;

[0028]FIG. 8 is a side plan view of the housing of FIG. 4 shown with apartial cut away section;

[0029]FIG. 9 is a front perspective detailed view of the housing of FIG.4 showing a microphone, an LCD monitor (both partially in phantom), anda card reader;

[0030]FIG. 10 is a diagrammatic flow chart of the keypad or card swipevideo activation process;

[0031]FIG. 11 is a diagrammatic flow chart of the card processingprocedure confirming the transaction;

[0032]FIG. 12 is a diagrammatic flow chart depicting golfer registrationin accordance with an alternative preferred embodiment of the invention;

[0033]FIG. 13 is a continuation of the registration flow chart of FIG.12;

[0034]FIG. 14 is a diagrammatic flow chart illustrating process flow ofthe financial transaction associated with the embodiment of FIG. 12;

[0035]FIG. 15 is a perspective view showing a preferred activation unitfor installation generally at a tee on a selected golf course hole;

[0036]FIG. 16 is a diagrammatic flow chart depicting process stepsimplemented by the activation unit of FIG. 15;

[0037]FIG. 17 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 1, but illustratingan alternative embodiment including a pair of cameras at the tee forrecording a golf shot;

[0038]FIG. 18 is a schematic diagram similar to FIG. 2, but illustratingan alternative embodiment including a pair of cameras at the green forrecording a golf shot;

[0039]FIG. 19 is a diagrammatic representation similar to FIG. 3,showing operation of the cameras and the tee and green for recording agolf shot;

[0040]FIG. 20 is a diagrammatic flow chart depicting actions forreporting a winning golf shot in accordance with an alternativepreferred embodiment of the invention;

[0041]FIG. 21 is a continuation of the flow chart of FIG. 20; and

[0042]FIG. 22 is a diagrammatic flow chart showing process steps forverifying a winning golf shot in accordance with the alternativepreferred form of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0043] The detailed description set forth below in connection with theappended drawings is intended as a description of presently preferredembodiments of the invention and is not intended to represent the onlyforms in which the present invention may be constructed or utilized. Thedescription sets forth the functions and the sequence of steps forconstructing and operating the invention in connection with theillustrated embodiments. It is to be understood, however, that the sameor equivalent functions and sequence may be accomplished by differentembodiments that are also intended to be encompassed within the spiritand scope of the invention.

[0044]FIGS. 1 through 11 show pertinent portions of the presentinvention that achieves a hole-in-one golf video registration system ina reliable and user-friendly manner.

[0045] As shown in FIG. 3, two cameras may be used to provide therecordable video signal necessary for confirming holes-in-one. As shownin FIGS. 1 and 2, the present invention 30 may use a pair of cameras inorder to respectively monitor and temporally coordinate activity at thetee and the green. The tee camera 32 is positioned so that it canvisually monitor the activities on the tee, a limited playing area atthe beginning of every golf course hole. Similarly, the green camera 34is situated so that it can monitor activity on the green, particularlyin the area of the cup or hole. Like the tee, the green is also alimited playing area that is generally easily monitored by videocameras. In order to make the cameras less obtrusive, they may bepositioned in trees or other natural objects present on the golf courseso that they do not distract from the pastoral surroundings. Both thetee camera 32 and the green camera 34 may be of known construction, butshould be shielded from the elements as the electronic components may bedetrimentally subject to wind, rain, and the weather.

[0046] The tee camera 32 is supplied with power from a camera powersupply 40. The output from the tee camera 32 is transmitted by a videodistribution amp 42 to a video splitter 44 and a video switcher 46. Thevideo splitter 44 may be in series with or parallel to the videoswitcher 46.

[0047] The same is similarly true for the power supply and video outputstream of the green camera 34. A green camera power supply 50 suppliesthe green camera 34 with operating power. The video output stream fromthe green camera 34 is transmitted to a green camera video distributionamp 52 which signal is subsequently split and transmitted to the videosplitter 44 and the video switcher 46.

[0048] The video splitter 44 combines the two images recorded by thecameras 32, 34 so that they appear side by side on the same screen. Inorder to ensure coordination of the video streams, timing stamps or thelike can be incorporated into the video streams to ensure that they arerecording at the same time. A first video recorder 60 times both camerasso that an exact comparison can be made of the times associated witheach camera. The timing stamp, time-date generator, or the like is builtinto the video recorder 60 that is used simultaneously by all cameras.

[0049] The video output from the video splitter 44 is transmitted to afirst video cassette recorder 60 (VCR1). A separate signal istransmitted to a second video cassette recorder 62 (VCR2) in order toprovide two copies of the rare hole-in-one event. Each VCR is equippedwith auto-repeat recording capability such that when the tape reachesits end, it will rewind automatically to the beginning and startsrecording again. Furthermore, when the administrator of the system isinformed that a hole-in-one has been made, the tapes are immediatelyretrieved for verification and confirmation purposes, and replacementtapes are inserted into each VCR unit for continued operation.

[0050] The video switcher 46 may exercise power control over the cameras32, 34 by regulating and controlling the state of the associated powersupplies 40, 50. A microphone 64 may be present in association with thetee camera 32. The signal from the microphone 64 may be passed to amicrophone mixer 66 which signal is subsequently transmitted to thevideo switcher 46. A card swipe reader 68 reads cards with magneticstripes or the like swiped through it by the golfer seeking to recordhis or her hole-in-one. The card swipe reader data signal is transmittedto the first VCR 60 where the information may be encoded into the videosignal to associate the card swipe with the golf shot.

[0051] The entire system of the present invention 30 may be suppliedwith 110 volt AC power and may be regulated by an on/off switch and atimer. The 110 volt AC power 70 may be used to control the operation ofthe present invention 30 and may be associated with the card swipereader, forcing the card to be swiped in order for power to be suppliedto the components of the present invention 30.

[0052] In an alternative embodiment of the present invention, a thirdcamera (not shown) having a camera power supply (not shown) and a videodistribution amp (not shown) may be utilized to focus on the fairway andvideotape the flight of the golf ball over the fairway and to provide acontinuous stream of video images of the fairway to the video splitter44 which signal is then transmitted to the first and second VCR units.

[0053]FIGS. 4 through 9 show a housing structure that may provideenvironmental protection for the camera and associated equipment of thepresent invention. Additionally, the central pillar column may provide aconduit by which underground cables may be strung and protected frominclement weather. As shown in FIG. 4, the housing 80 has a centralbox-like container 82 topped with a cover 84. The cover 84 may have aforward extension 86 that serves as a shade for the sun. The container82 with its cover 84 serve to protect the confines of the housing 80thereby allowing the equipment to used for an extended period of time inall kinds and types of weather. A transparent window or aperture 88 isused to allow optical images of the surrounding golf course to beimpressed upon a video camera or the like (not shown). The camera mayrest upon a shelf 90 or the like, if such should be necessary. The shelf90 may be approximately {fraction (3/4)} inch thick and extend thelength and width of the enclosure defined by the housing container 82. Abottom or lower panel 92 provides protection from detrimental elementscoming from below. A door 94 pivoting on a hinge 96 serves to provide acomplete enclosure for the camera and accompanying equipment. Theconfines of the housing 80 may be configured in any convenient oradvantageous form in order to forward and/or achieve the goals of thepresent invention.

[0054] The entire enclosure may be insulated from the elements byinsulation approximately {fraction (1/2)} inch thick on all sides. In analternative embodiment, such insulation may be omitted from the bottompanel. Latches 100, such as tamper resistant latches, may be used tohold the door 94 closed against the housing container 82.

[0055] Air flow through the housing 80 may be achieved by means ofblowers, vents, or the like. In one embodiment, blowers with covers 102are placed on opposite sides of the housing container 82. The blowersmay also be placed at different elevations so that there is not onlycross-ventilation laterally, but vertically as well. Alternatively, theblowers or vents may be disposed at opposite corners of the housing 80so that there is complete lateral, vertical, and horizontalcross-ventilation inside the housing 80. It may be possible to effectadequate ventilation by the use of a single blower in conjunction with avent. Under most circumstances, an air filter 104 is advised to preventlarge dust particles and small insects from migrating into the confinesof the housing 80.

[0056] The housing 80 may stand upright some distance from the ground bymeans of a pedestal mount 110 standing approximately three to four feettall. The pedestal mount may be attached to the bottom panel 92 at itstop and a base plate 112 at its bottom. Screws, bolts or the like may beused to secure the base plate 112 to a concrete pad or other stablefoundation (not shown).

[0057] The central pedestal mount 110 may be perforated at its bottomwith an opening 114 allowing access into the interior of the pedestalmount 110. The opening 114 may be sealed with a one-inch orappropriately sized conduit threaded bushing. As shown in FIG. 7, acentral cutout 116 for cable access at the bottom of the housing 80allows communication between the interior of the housing 80 and theinterior of the pedestal mount 110. If underground wiring is preferred,the base plate 112 may likewise have an opening allowing communicationthrough the base plate 112 to the interior of the pedestal mount 110. Atop plate 120 (as shown in FIG. 7) may allow securement of the housing80 to the pedestal mount 110.

[0058] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, a similar type of housing 80 may beused in order to provide user control over the hole-in-one golf videoregistration system 30 of the present invention. Similar features areindicated with similar reference numbers. However, instead of thepresence of video cameras 32, 34 held within the housing 80, amicrophone 64 along with the accompanying other equipment is providedfor the golfer at the tee.

[0059] As shown in FIGS. 8 and 9, in addition to the microphone 64, anLCD display 120 and a card reader 122 may be fixed to a convenient panelof the housing 80. As shown in FIG. 9, the microphone 64 is held insidethe enclosure but is allowed some acoustic communication with theexterior. As shown in FIG. 9, an aperture hole or the like 124 may bepresent. The aperture 124 may be covered with a waterproof or waterresistant cover, such as Gore-tex®, in order to prevent the migration ofwater into the confines of the housing 80. Alternatively, a vented covermay be used to protect the microphone.

[0060] The LCD display 120 may provide the golfer with visual statusinformation and the like with respect to the operation of thehole-in-one video registration system of the present invention. The LCDdisplay 120 may be substituted by other types of video displays as areappropriate for the present invention 30.

[0061] The card reader 122 is accessible from the outside of the housing80 and provides means by which magnetically striped or other similarcards may be swiped through the card reader to engage and initiate theshot recordation process.

[0062] As is known in the art, the card reader may be connected toverification means in order to verify the transaction. Alternatively, ina possibly preferable embodiment, the card reader 122 may be replaced bya credit card terminal and keypad device (not shown). These may beconnected to a third-party electronic funds transfer system (EFT)transaction processor using the Hughes Electronic Cellular DigitalPacket Data (CDPD) protocol or standard. The third-party electronicfunds transfer system (EFT) may take the form of and be similar to bankATM machines, and has an electronic signal transceiver that can send andreceive electronic signals by way of wired phone lines or wirelesscellular pak phones lines.

[0063] Having described the basic components of the present invention,the process by which they are used in conjunction with one another toeffect the present invention is shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 and describedbelow.

[0064] In FIG. 10, the keypad/card swipe unit may engage in thefollowing process 130. This process is readily adapted to the use of thekeypad and video display. However, the use of a card with a magneticstripe is a rapid and convenient means by which financial identificationinformation such as a credit card number may be transmitted to thefinancial transaction network. The routine is initialized as indicatedby the encircled numeral 1 (132) and the start step 134. An initialengagement routine 136 awaits initialization by user input. An idlemessage 138 is displayed indicating the readiness of the system andinstructions for initiating its use. Additionally, golf courseinformation and advertising may also be displayed at this time andthroughout the foregoing process.

[0065] The keypad, card swipe, or other input devices are monitored foractivity 140. If no activity is present, cycle is made back to the idlemessage 138 and to the input monitoring step 140. If a code has beenentered 142, input is monitored to check if the user has pressed “enter”150. If the user has not pressed “enter” 152, input is checked to see ifthe user has pressed “cancel” 154, If the user did press “cancel” 156,cycle is made back to the idle message 138. Otherwise, the user has notpressed “cancel” 158 and cycle is made back to the user code entrydetection 140.

[0066] If the user pressed “enter” 160, the code entered by the user isvalidated 170. If the code is not valid 172, an invalid code message 174is displayed to the user and process flow control goes back to the start134. If a valid code is entered 176, instructions are given to the userto swipe his or her credit card 178. The golfer then swipes his or hercredit card and the data is sent to a host or similar computer foreffecting the financial transaction 190. The process verifies that theelectronic/information link to the host is established and stable 192.If so, process flow control is continued (as shown in FIG. 10) by thesteps following the encircled numeral 2 (194). If the host link is notsufficiently established 196, query is made as to whether or not theprocess has been tried three times 198. If it has not been 200, the hostlink establishment routine 202 is reinvoked by transfer of process flowback to the transmission of data to the host 190.

[0067] If the host link routine 202 has been engaged four times, theretry greater than three times test 198 returns a “true” or “yes” value204. A message 206 is then transmitted to the golfer indicating that thecredit network is temporarily unavailable and that the golfer shouldplease try again later as indicated by the encircled numeral 4 (208) inFIG. 10. Transfer of the process is then delivered to the initialprogram step as indicated by the encircled numeral 1 (132).

[0068] The golfer may then try again if he or she so desires, or foregothe transaction with this charitable donation and proceed with the golfshot at the tee.

[0069] If the host link is properly established 220, the transaction isverified and/or approved 222.

[0070] If the transaction is declined 224, then a display is madeindicating that the transaction is declined 226 to notify the golfer.Control flow of the process is then transferred over to theinitialization sequence as indicated by the encircled numeral 1 (132).

[0071] If the transaction is approved 230, a message is delivered to thegolfer 232 thanking him or her and indicating the printing of a receipt.A receipt is then printed 234 to indicate a charitably deductibletransaction and to otherwise record the transaction. The receipt may beprinted by one of many currently known printers, particularly ones thatwould survive the environment in which the present invention 30 ismaintained.

[0072] A subsequent display 240 indicates the beginning of the shotclock and the time in which the golfer has to make the shot. As shown inFIG. 10, the display 240 indicates 45 seconds as being a reasonableperiod of time in which to effect the golf shot. However, other timeperiods may also be used according to the selection of the manager ofthe golf course or otherwise.

[0073] Upon displaying the shot clock message 240, a video recordationof the shot is made 242 with the display 244 indicating the remainingtime available in which to make the shot. A timing loop 246 is thenengaged in which the current time is tested to see whether or not theshot clock has expired 248.

[0074] If the time has not expired 250, the display 244 is updated andthe query as to the expiration of the shot time period 248 is reinvoked.Once the time has expired 252, flow control is transferred as shown bythe encircled numeral 3 (254) to a step stopping the video recordationprocess 256 and a thank you message is displayed 258. The process isthen finished 260 and control may then be returned to the initializationloop 130 via the encircled numeral 1 (132) in FIG. 10.

[0075]FIG. 11 shows the steps that may be taken between the confirmationof the establishment of the host link 220 and the approval verificationof the transaction 222. In these alternative steps 270, a charitydesignated by a number or other identifier may be chosen as therecipient of the charitable donation.

[0076] While the charity selection and confirmation process 270 may beinvoked separately through a separate start procedure 272, transfer offlow control from the verification of the host link 220 can also leadinto the charitable selection process. Once the charity process 272 hasbeen invoked, it takes as input the data received from the keypad/cardswipe unit 274. That data is then verified in a verification step 276.If the data is not valid 278, a message may be transmitted as by displayto the user 280 in a manner similar to the valid code query 170resulting in the invalid code display 174 (FIG. 10). If the card data isvalidated 290, query is made as to the charity number and whether it isrecognized 292. If the charity number is not recognized 294, instructionas by a visual notice may be given in order to select another charitynumber 296. The charity number recognition loop beginning with the query292 may be similar to that of the initialization loop 130 in FIG. 10.Particularly, the code validation step 170 with its process flow controlmay be adapted to the recognition of the charity number and the reentryor entry of another charity number if the initially selected charitynumber is not recognized.

[0077] If the charity is recognized, the process flow then proceeds withquerying as to the approval of the transaction 310. This query issimilar to that as shown in FIG. 10 at the transaction approval query222. If the transaction is not approved 312, a “transaction declined” ordisapproval message 314 may be transmitted to the user much like that asshown in the transaction decline notification 226 in FIG. 10. If thetransaction is approved 316, the transaction is then processed 318 withthe approval codes returned to the unit 320 which then indicates thetransaction has been approved and the card processing flow procedure 270finishing 322. After the card processing flow 270 has finished, processcontrol may be then transferred to the keypad/card swipe process 130such as by entry into the step where the thank you notification is givento the golfer and the receipt is printed 232.

[0078] FIGS. 12-22 illustrate alternative preferred embodiments of thepresent invention wherein the VCR video tape recording method of FIGS.1-11 is substituted by a digital video recording method utilizing acomputer for recording and storing video images for each attempted golfshot. In addition, the embodiments of FIGS. 12-22 contemplate analternative and improved technique for golfer participation wherein eachgolfer may obtain a unique golf shot or attempt number in conjunctionwith a personal identification number (PIN) at a convenient off-site orremote location, and further wherein the golfer can input his or hershot number and PIN at an activation terminal unit or kiosk located atthe specific golf tee immediately prior to attempting the golf shot.

[0079] More specifically, in the embodiment of FIGS. 12-22, eachparticipant golfer may obtain a game card 329 (FIG. 12) or the like forparticipation in the hole-in-one system of the present invention,wherein the game card may be used on any date or designated range ofdates and at any golf course having one or more suitably equipped holesfor monitoring and recording the golf shot of each participant. In thisregard, the game card 329 will bear a unique card number or othersuitable code which is subject to registration, validation andverification, as will be described, prior to an attempt by the golfer tomake a hole-in-one. It is envisioned that the game card 329 will beavailable from a participating charity organization, and/or fromparticipating golf courses, and the like. In one convenient form asshown, the game card 329 may bear bar code information for automatedreading of the unique card number thereon.

[0080]FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate registration, validation andverification of a game card 329 by an individual golfer. As shown, in apreferred procedure, a system web site identified by reference numeral330 is accessed, wherein this web site is set up and operated by theadministrator of the hole-in-one registration and verification system.Advantageously, this web site can be accessed via the Internet from anylocation, and does not require that the golfer travel to any specificlocation. The golfer or entrant proceeds to a card registration web page332 and enters the unique game card number. A valid number entry permitsthe golfer to proceed with building a user profile 334 (typically toinclude name, address, telephone number, and other relevant contactinformation), followed by a screen 336 enabling selection of the numberof hole-in-one shot attempts which the golfer desires to make. Followingthis, the flow process continues to fee calculation screen 338 whichdisplays the total amount due from the golfer. A credit card (or debitcard) payment routine 340 then allows the golfer to enter an activecredit card number for payment in accordance with a financial flowprocess 342 shown in more detail in FIG. 14.

[0081] More particularly, as shown in FIG. 14, the financial flowprocess 342 entails automated bank approval of the credit cardtransaction in a conventional manner, as depicted by transaction block344. Thereafter, the funds are automatically distributed by aprogrammable distribution step 346 to apply a selected portion (shown as30%) to an “administration” account 348 and a selected portion (shown as70%) to a “charity” or “trust” account 350. A selected portion of the“administration” account may also be applied to a “bonus pool” 352 whichmay accumulate over time for paying additional prize moneys to winninggolfers, as will be further described. The funds applied to the “trustaccount” 350 and accumulated interest thereon are subsequently depositedto one or more participating charity accounts 354, in accordance withgolfer charity designations.

[0082] Returning FIG. 12, a charity selection block 356 enables thegolfer to choose one or more particular charitable organizations toreceive a contribution as a result of the golfer's participation in thehole-in-one system. In the event that the golfer attempts to designate acharity which is not a current system participant, there is an off-lineroutine 358 (FIG. 13) by which administrative staff may be contacted inan attempt to add and/or verify participation by a specificorganization. One choice available to the golfer may be a “default”choice, in which event the system can be programmed to distribute thegolfer's contribution to a “default” charitable organization, or tospread the contribution among a plurality of charitable organizations.

[0083] Following selection of the charity to receive the contribution,the system then prompts the golfer to enter a unique personalidentification number (PIN), as indicated by the routine 360 on FIG. 13.Upon acceptance of the PIN, a “transaction completed” screen 362appears, and enables the golfer to print and receive printedconfirmation of the golfer's contribution before exiting the program.The game or shot attempt number in combination with the user-selectedPIN constitutes a unique and verifiable shot attempt code.

[0084] As an alternative to the above-described process for on-lineregistration of the game card, it is envisioned that the golfer may alsoaccomplish the same steps by telephone access using an appropriatetoll-free number or the like, to register the game card number,establish a unique PIN associated with that game card, and to make therequisite contribution to one or more charitable organizations.

[0085]FIG. 15 illustrates an exemplary activation unit 364 in the formof a relatively compact kiosk-type housing located generally at thegolfer's approach to a golf course hole equipped with the registrationand monitoring system of the present invention. This activation unit 364comprises a compact and substantially weatherproof housing similar tothat shown and described in FIGS. 5-9, to include a golfer-accessiblekeypad 366 and a viewable display screen 368. The activation unit 364may additionally include a card swipe reader 370 for reading a game cardbearing magnetic stripe information as described previously herein,and/or a bar code reader 372 for reading a game card bearing bar codeinformation. An upper portion of the activation unit 364 may also bearinstructions for operation as indicated by reference numeral 374, and adisplay map 376 of the specific golf course hole may be mounted onto alower portion of the activation unit 364. The activation unit 364 ispositioned generally adjacent the tee of the golf course hole.

[0086] The flow process implemented by the activation unit 364 is shownin FIG. 16. As shown, the process may be initiated conveniently by thegolfer touching the display screen 368 to cause display of a message 378asking whether the golfer desires more information, or would like toactivate the system by entering the appropriate shot attempt code. Toactivate the system, the golfer enters the game card or shot attemptnumber as indicated at process block 380, and then enters the unique PINnumber associated therewith as indicated at process block 382. If thegame card and PIN numbers represent a code that is registered andvalidated, the golfer's name is displayed on a welcome screen 384, andthe golfer is instructed to touch the display screen 368 at theappropriate spot when ready to attempt the golf shot (reference number386). As soon as the golfer touches the display screen to indicatereadiness to attempt the shot, the video cameras at the tee and greenare activated (388) and the display screen presents a viewable timecountdown (390) such as a time interval of 45 seconds or other suitabletime interval sufficient for the golfer to attempt the hole-in-one golfshot. At the conclusion of this time interval, the cameras are turnedoff (392) and the display screen 368 presents a “thank you” message(394).

[0087] In the event that the golfer has possession of a proper game cardor otherwise has a game number which has not previously been activatedin association with a PIN number as described in FIGS. 12-13, theactivation unit 364 may also be operated for this purpose. Morespecifically, the golfer can activate the game number by operating theactivation unit 364 according to FIGS. 12-13 to enter the game number,establish a PIN number, contribute funds by credit card, and then selectone or more charities to receive the contribution. These steps wouldthen be followed by operating the activation unit 364 according to theflow process of FIG. 16 to make a hole-in-one shot attempt.

[0088] FIGS. 17-19 illustrate an alternative preferred embodiment of theinvention similar to FIGS. 1-3, but wherein a pair of video cameras isprovided at each of the tee and green locations for recording thehole-in-one attempt, and further wherein each video camera is linked toan associated processor unit 396 in the form of a computer having a harddrive for recording digital video signals. More particularly, in apreferred arrangement, FIG. 17 shows a pair of video cameras 32 and 33mounted (in the manner described with respect to FIGS. 5-9) within thehousing “A” of the activation unit 364 at the tee 398. Each of this pairof cameras 32, 33 provides a separate recording of each attemptedhole-in-one shot, such as by recording the attempt at a rate of about 30frames per second (fps). These cameras 32, 33 provide redundant digitalvideo signals to the associated computer unit 396 which stores the videoevent. The computer unit 396 may be mounted directly within the housingof the activation unit 364, or alternately linked in a suitable mannerto the cameras to permit computer unit mounting at a selected remotesite. Importantly, the video records produced by these cameras areassociated with appropriate golfer identification or shot attempt codeidentification in conjunction with time and date stamp information toenable subsequent verification of a successful hole-in-one shot attempt.

[0089] Similarly, FIG. 18 shows a pair of video cameras 34 and 35mounted (in the manner described with respect to FIGS. 5-9) within thehousing “B” located at the green 400 of the golf hole. This latter pairof video cameras 34, 35 again provides redundant or back-up recordingsof the attempted golf shot. These cameras 34, 35 may also record theevent at a rate of about 30 fps. Alternately, one of the cameras 34, 35may be set to record at a slower rate of about 2 fps for pinpointing thelocation at which the golf ball comes to rest in relation to the cup, ora third video camera (not shown) may be provided for this function.These video outputs are coupled to the associated computer unit 396which may be separately mounted within the housing “B”, or may comprisea single computer unit linked to the video cameras mounted within bothof the housings “A” and “B”.

[0090] In accordance with one aspect of the invention, the cameras 34,35 associated with the housing “B” for recording the activity on thegreen 400 may be used to verify the distance of the ball from the cup atthe conclusion of the golf shot. In this regard, the green cameras maybe set to record for a longer period of time, sufficient to permit thegolfer to walk onto the green and utilize a measuring apparatus such asa measuring tape conveniently built into the flagpole mast to measurethis distance between the ball at rest and the cup. This enables therecording system to verify winners in “closest-to-the-pin contests, inaddition to hole-in-one verification.

[0091] In the event that the golfer makes a hole-in-one, such winningshot is reported as shown in FIGS. 20-21. As shown, a reporting terminal402 such as a kiosk similar to the activation unit 364 (FIG. 15) may belocated at the golf course at a selected convenient site, such as in thepro shop or clubhouse facility of the golf course. Such reportingterminal may include a touch-activated display screen 404 which isaccessed by the golfer to input his or her game card number and uniquePIN. Upon entry of such valid identification data, the display screenwill present the golfer's name, the date, the golf course, and thespecific hole at which the hole-in-one attempt was made by that golfer(405). The golfer is then given an opportunity to verify thisinformation, as indicated at block 406 in FIG. 20, in which event thereporting terminal 402 will respond with an appropriate “thank you”message (408) as shown in FIG. 21 and print a receipt (410) forretention by the golfer.

[0092] Alternatively, in the absence of a reporting terminal at the golfcourse facility, the golfer may report the winning shot by dialing atoll-free telephone or the like. Reporting of the winning shot may beaccomplished by automated responses to programmed data inquiries tocollect information such as the game card number, golfer PIN, etc. Thegolfer may also be given an opportunity to state his or her name, thedate, the specific golf course and hole at which the hole-in-one wasmade, as indicated at block 412, after which a programmed verificationnumber (414) may be given to the golfer. As another alternative, thegolfer may report the hole-in-one and relevant golf course details to anoperator, as indicated by the flow chart routine 416 in FIG. 21.

[0093] After the hole-in-one is reported, a verification process takesplace to check and verify that the reporting golfer has in fact achieveda hole-in-one and is entitled to receive the appropriate prize. Asdepicted in FIG. 22, administrative staff regularly check incomingtelephone reports received automatically or by a operator, as indicatedat block 417. Upon receiving a report of a hole-in-one, the staffdownloads the video records from the corresponding computer unit orunits 396, wherein such download may occur manually (418) or byelectronic modem or similar indirect access (420). The administrativestaff reviews the video records to determine whether a hole-in-one wasin fact achieved, as reported, by the golfer holding a particular gamecard number. If the staff determines that a hole-in-one has occurred,the video record is then submitted to the insurance carrier (422) forindependent verification (424), followed by the insurance carrierissuing a prize check (426) in appropriate amount to the successfulgolfer. The prize funds paid to the golfer may also include the all or aportion of the funds accumulated in the “bonus pool” account 352described in FIG. 14.

[0094] In addition to pay-out to a golfer for achieving a hole-in-one,the system can be used to monitor and verify the position of eachparticipating golfer in a “closest-to-the-pin” contest by receivingreports from golfers regarding the distance of each ball from the cup(when a hole-in-one is not achieved). Such close-to-the-hole data can bereported and collected in a similar manner, such as by encouraginggolfers to report any shot landing within a specified close distance(e.g., 6 feet) from the cup. Once again, the video record can bereviewed to verify each golfer's report, and to award prizes orotherwise maintain a computer record of the recorded distances. In theexample shown, the system web site is updated as indicated at block 428to maintain a list of golfer's having their shots land within 6 feet ofthe cup.

[0095] The digital video recording system beneficially provides a highresolution video record of each attempted shot in a form suitable forrapid and convenient storage on the hard disk drive of the computer unit396, wherein the computer unit 396 can record the action from the teecameras 32, 33 and the green cameras 34, 35 at the same time. This videorecord of each hole-in-one shot attempt can be stored on the disk drivefor a suitable designated time interval such as one month to give eachparticipant sufficient time to report a winning shot to the programadministrator for verification and prize award. The computer unit 396 islinked by modem or wireless RF connection to the reporting terminal 402,which in turn is also linked in a similar manner to the systemadministrator for remote downloading of the video record for a reportedhole-in-one shot. This arrangement enables administrative staff toaccess and download the video record in a remote manner from a centraloffice site, without requiring staff members to travel to individualgolf courses to retrieve video tape cassettes for review andverification. Appropriate security watermarks may be embedded onto thecomputer storage disk for enhancing the authenticity of the videorecord. Moreover, the digital video record can be viewed frame-by-frameas part of the verification process.

[0096] While the present invention has been described with regard toparticular embodiments, it is recognized that additional variations ofthe present invention may be devised without departing from theinventive concept. In this regard, it will be appreciated that featuresof the embodiments shown and described in FIGS. 12-22 may beincorporated into the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 1-11, and vice versa.Accordingly, no limitation on the invention is intended by way of theforegoing description and accompanying drawings, except as set forth inthe appended claims.

What is claimed is:
 1. A golf video hole-in-one registration and verification system, comprising: user-accessible database means for registering a hole-in-one shot attempt code in association with a specific golfer, said database means further including means for electronically receiving a financial contribution and for validating said shot attempt code upon receipt of said financial contribution; an activation unit positioned generally adjacent the tee of a selected golf course hole, said activation unit including means for inputting a registered and validated shot attempt code and for responding thereto to activate at least one tee camera and at least one green camera positioned respectively at the tee and green of the selected golf course hole, said at least one tee camera producing a video record of activity on the tee and said at least one green camera producing a video record of activity on the green to record a hole-in-one shot attempt; at least one processor unit coupled to said tee and green cameras for digitally storing the video records produced by said tee and green cameras; and verification means coupled to said at least one processor unit for accessing the video record of each hole-in-one shot attempt to permit review and verification of a successful hole-in-one shot attempt.
 2. The system of claim 1 wherein said database means is user-accessible via an Internet web site.
 3. The system of claim 1 wherein said database means is user-accessible via a remote access terminal.
 4. The system of claim 1 wherein said database means includes means for receiving and registering a shot attempt number, and for prompting a user to enter a unique and user-selected personal identification number (PIN) in association with said shot attempt number, said shot attempt number and PIN collectively comprising said shot attempt code.
 5. The system of claim 1 wherein said means for electronically receiving a financial contribution comprises means for receiving said contribution by credit/debit card payment.
 6. The system of claim 1 wherein said user-accessible database means further includes means for user-selection of at least one entity from a list of multiple entities to receive a portion of said financial contribution.
 7. The system of claim 6 wherein said database means includes means for spreading said financial contribution among a plurality of different financial accounts.
 8. The system of claim 1 wherein activation unit includes keypad means for inputting a registered and validated shot attempt code.
 9. The system of claim 8 wherein said activation unit further includes a user-viewable video display screen.
 10. The system of claim 1 wherein said activation unit includes a card reader for automatically reading information on a game card.
 11. The system of claim 1 wherein said activation unit is coupled to said database means.
 12. The system of claim 1 wherein said activation unit includes a substantially weatherproof housing having said at least one processor unit container therein.
 13. The system of claim 1 wherein said at least one tee camera comprises a pair of tee cameras for providing redundant video records of activity on the tee.
 14. The system of claim 1 wherein said at least one green camera comprises a pair of green cameras for providing redundant video records of activity on the green.
 15. The system of claim 14 wherein said pair of green cameras provide said redundant video records at different recording speeds.
 16. The system of claim 1 wherein said at least one processor unit comprises a computer having a disk drive for storing the video record provided by said tee and green cameras.
 17. The system of claim 16 wherein said at least one processor unit is programmed for deleting the video record provided by said tee and green cameras at the end of a predetermined time interval.
 18. The system of claim 1 wherein said activation unit is responsive to input of a registered and validated shot attempt code to activating said tee and green cameras for a predetermined limited time interval.
 19. The system of claim 18 wherein said activation unit further including means for communicating the conclusion of said predetermined limited time interval to a user.
 20. The system of claim 1 further including shot reporting means coupled to said verification means for user-reporting of a successful hole-in-one shot attempt.
 21. The system of claim 20 wherein said shot reporting means comprises a reporting terminal coupled to said verification means and including means for inputting a registered and validated shot attempt code.
 22. The system of claim 1 wherein said verification means is located remote from said at least one processor unit.
 23. The system of claim 1 wherein said activation unit comprises a plurality of activation units each respectively positioned generally adjacent a different selected tee of a corresponding plurality of selected golf course holes.
 24. The system of claim 23 wherein said user-accessible database means includes means for registering and validating a shot attempt code to permit a plurality of hole-in-one shot attempts.
 25. A golf video hole-in-one registration and verification method, comprising the steps of: user-accessing a database for registering a hole-in-one shot attempt code in association with a specific golfer, and for electronically making a financial contribution; database-validating the shot attempt code upon receipt of the financial contribution; inputting a registered and validated shot attempt code to an activation unit positioned generally adjacent the tee of a selected golf course hole; responding to the inputted registered and validated shot attempt code to produce separate video records of activity on the tee and activity on the green associated with a hole-in-one shot attempt; digitally storing the separate video records; and subsequently accessing the separate video records to permit review and verification of a successful hole-in-one shot attempt.
 26. The method of claim 25 wherein said database user-accessing step comprises accessing an Internet web site.
 27. The method of claim 25 wherein said database user-accessing step comprises accessing a remote database access terminal.
 28. The method of claim 25 wherein said database user-accessing step comprises user-input of a shot attempt number, and database-prompting the user to enter a unique and user-selected personal identification number (PIN) in association with said shot attempt number, said shot attempt number and PIN collectively comprising said shot attempt code.
 29. The method of claim 25 wherein electronic contribution step comprises a credit/debit card payment step.
 30. The method of claim 25 wherein said database user-accessing step further comprises user-selection of at least one entity from a list of multiple entities to receive a portion of said financial contribution.
 31. The method of claim 25 wherein said activation unit is coupled to said database.
 32. The method of claim 25 wherein said step of producing separate video records comprises providing redundant video records of activity on the tee and on the green.
 33. The method of claim 32 wherein said step of providing redundant video records of activity on the green comprises producing said redundant video records with a least a pair of green cameras operated at different recording speeds.
 34. The method of claim 25 wherein said of digitally storing said video records comprises storing the video records on a computer disk drive.
 35. The method of claim 34 further including the step of deleting the stored video records at the end of a predetermined time interval.
 36. The method of claim 25 wherein said step of responding to an inputted registered and validated shot attempt code to produce said video records comprises the step of activating tee and green cameras for a predetermined limited time interval.
 37. The method of claim 25 further including step of reporting a successful hole-in-one shot attempt to verification staff.
 38. The method of claim 37 wherein said shot reporting step comprises user-accessing a reporting terminal.
 39. The method of claim 37 further including the step of remotely accessing the stored video records for verifying a successful hole-in-one shot attempt.
 40. The method of claim 25 wherein said activation unit comprises a plurality of activation units each respectively positioned generally adjacent a different selected tee of a corresponding plurality of selected golf course holes.
 41. The method of claim 40 wherein said database user-accessing step comprises registering and validating a shot attempt code to permit a plurality of hole-in-one shot attempts. 